Whooping Crane Recovery: A Case Study in Public and Private Cooperation in the Conservation of Endangered Species

I describe three theoretical approaches to endangered species conservation: public-sector models, private-sector models, and mixed models. Criteria to consider in evaluating these models are scientific, economic, legal, ethical, and administrative. The history of conservation efforts on behalf of the endangered Whooping Crane ( Grus americana ) is used as an example of a mixed-model approach (one that involves both public- and private-sector organizations and individuals) to the conservation of endangered species. Evaluation of Whooping Crane conservation efforts, using the specified criteria, suggests that this mixed model gets relatively high marks in all areas. My recommendations for endangered species conservation activities include (1) ensuring that all potential sources of scientific expertise and "caring" are included, (2) developing a robust national funding mechanism for endangered species conservation efforts, and (3) creating streamlined administrative structures and operating procedures tailored to the unique needs of each endangered species conservation team. Broader implications of the Whooping Crane story for conservation biology as a profession and for conservation biologists as individuals include (1) being inclusive rather than exclusive in conservation planning and implementation, (2) recognizing the power of individual initiative and commitment, (3) collecting basic data over an extended period of time, and (4) emphasizing the importance of communication, cooperation, and coordination.